Lab Exercise: Technology & Civic Engagement

HILLARY CLINTON

-Presidential campaign 2008
-"Women for Hilary"--links to myspace, facebook, youtube, flicker, and eons
-Homepage does not focus on issues--must follow link
-Promises: strengthening middle class, providing affordable/accessable healthcare, ending war in Iraq, energy independence, fulfill promises to veterans, restoring America's "standing" in the world, strengthening government democracy
-Expresses more liberal views--targeting younger generation
How does website promote campaign? --uses links to facebook, myspace, bloggerspots
How does the Internet function to facilitate their election campaigns? At first-look users are given option to receive emails as supporters; blogs; may purchase "supporter-wear"
Differences: targeting younger generation--facebook, myspace, youtube, more colorful and upbeat; simpler




JOE LIEBERMAN

-US Senate 2008
-Homepage does not address issues--must follow link
-Promises: more in-depth than Hillary's site...you must actually read into the articles provided in order to gain insight into his position on issues; does not support ending war; America must regain its economic strength and create new jobs through pro-growth, fiscally responsible, entrepreneurial national leadership; Enhancing America's energy security and curbing global warming are two of Senator Lieberman's top legislative priorities; served on the conference committee for the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, Efficient Transportation Act - A Legacy for Users in which he was able to secure hundreds of millions dollars for Connecticut's highways, roads, and transit facilities; spearheaded efforts to reform America's educational system by boosting federal funding, expanding access to quality education, challenging educators to raise standards, and providing all Americans with the skills to compete in the global economy through the introduction of innovative legislation.
-Expresses more conservative views; targeting older generation
How does website promote campaign?--uses devices to attract older generation; gives opportunity to view public speeches
Differences: very "red-white-and blue"; links to newsfeeds; more professional